Three Angels Broadcasting Network Devotional
Root Bound

By Summer Boyd October 5

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit.”

Jeremiah 17:7–8

On January 1, I start watching the farm store parking lot for the trees and plants that show up every spring. And when it finally happens three months later, I get so excited! But last week, as I prepared to plant a little plant, I found that it was pitifully root-bound. I chuckled a bit and thought, I’m definitely feeling root-bound lately myself.​

But maybe I am root bound other ways. Perhaps the little pot I’m planted in is comfortable. Being transplanted sounds scary and out of my comfort zone. I’d rather stay here, where it’s safe, instead of growing into the plans God has for me.​

Maybe my stubborn heart likes the little pot. This is what I want. And in my selfishness, I’d rather stay where I am than be transplanted somewhere where I can grow to serve Him better.

It is through surrender to His plans—even if they are unknown and uncomfortable—that we grow. And as we realize our roots can grow deeper in Him, we can trust that He is providing His strength—both to withstand the storms of the unknown and reach the goals He’s created for our lives.